Crocheting For A Cause

I survived a very aggressive form of breast cancer because I discovered the tumor early by self examination. Had my cancer gone undetected for only a few more months, I may well have not survived. Awareness saved my life and I am committed to raising awareness so all affected women will have a chance for survival. I started crocheting necklaces in October 2010 thinking I would make a few and perhaps raise a few hundred dollars. What happened next was absolutely overwhelming! The interest and support from my husband, family, friends and community was unbelievable. Word of mouth spread so rapidly and I began receiving requests for necklaces from so many different people and places that I spend much of my free time crocheting. Since I donate all proceeds and don’t have the money to advertise, all I did to get it started was to send out some of the necklaces as gifts to make people aware of what I was attempting to do.
When my initial expectation of raising a few hundred dollars turned into several thousand, it was apparent there would be opportunity to further spread the message of awareness and donate even more in the future, as the interest in the necklaces continued to grow. I have crocheted well over a thousand necklaces and know that hundreds of women are wearing them in at least 30 different states and several foreign countries. I am thrilled that these necklaces are raising awareness among so many women in so many places. I ask for a small donation for each necklace and all proceeds are donated to the cause.
Exposure resulting from the necklace project has provided additional opportunities for me to spread the message of awareness and the importance of remaining vigilant in guarding against breast cancer. For example, my story has been featured in a number of television, radio, newspaper and magazine interviews. Also, I have been invited to speak at several women’s forums and events. Recently my story was shared with thousands of women as I was recognized as the South Dakota Susan Komen survivor of the year at their statewide event.
I feel fortunate to be among the warriors who are so committed to fighting and defeating this terrible disease. Together we can make a difference!